Olivia has just graduated from the OU with a BSc in Astronomy and Planetary Science and is now studying for MSc in Space Science and Technology. While working full time for a UK airline she also volunteers for UKSEDS (UK Students for the Exploration and Development of Space), helping to organise some of their events.

“It’s not every day you get the chance to pit yourself against world-renowned Universities by driving your robot around the desert in Utah, which is why I’m so grateful to be on the OU’s Rover Team. I’m learning skills that I would never have gained otherwise and I’m benefitting from great opportunities like this one. I’ve been helping to write some of the code that controls the robotic arm.

The Open University is an incredible institution and to be able to represent them on the world stage would be a great honour. One of their mottos is ‘The first thing you’ll learn at The Open University is what you’re capable of.

We do not have the same access to facilities and funding that other teams will have so please donate to our crowdfunding campaign and help us show them just how true those words can be!”